Buying a car - new driver

mike216

I'm expecting to take a driving test soon, and should I pass I'll be looking to buy a cheap, second-hand car.

I've had plenty of advice about the various options re: insurance, but would appreciate some advice/info on actually buying a car.

To give a vague idea, I'm looking for a cheap car (under £2k) as the first car, a max engine size of 1.4l, less than ten years old and under 100k miles, preferrably a hatchback with 5 doors and in one of the lower road tax categories. Other than these basic requirements I'm not too fussed.

I wondered if anyone had any advice first of all on a good car make/model for first-time drivers, or are they pretty much all the same.

Also, what are the common pitfalls to look out for when buying a used car? Is it better to go to a dealer or privately? What things should I look out for to avoid buying a dog? Are you more likely to get ripped off if you buy from a dealer?

I've seen previous advice on financing such a purchase which seemed to unequivocally advise avoiding finance - hence the lower value as I'll be buying with cash.

Thanks!

forgotmyname

Get some quotes and see what you can afford to insure. Cheap car under £2k may cost you £3k to insure where a £3k car might cost you £2k to insure.

Issues with your 1st car and according to the insurance companies your likely to crash it. If you do that company way want the balance of the policy paid even if you dont have the car anymore.